Theme 3: Data Access and Connectivity Healthcare Data Sharing and Management: Implementation of distributive machine learning technology and blockchain technology — Lead: Steve Drew . . INNOVATION STAGE Exploration Health Innovation Focus Health Data Security, Accessibility & Interoperability Population and Setting — Technology and Intervention — BENEFITS For Users For Patients: Increased control and autonomy over personal health data, fostering trust in healthcare practices. For Researchers: Improved access to healthcare data, enabling collaborative research and new insights into population health trends. For The System Enhanced Security: Decentralized data storage may reduce risks associated with centralized systems and lower vulnerability to cyber threats. Collaboration and Insights: Accessible, ethically-managed health data supports cross-institutional collaboration, leading to broader insights and advancements in healthcare. Increased Trust: Addressing patient privacy concerns and data transparency could help rebuild trust in healthcare data management practices. Project Theme Information Current State Data Ownership: Patients currently have limited control over their own health data, which means placing full trust in Alberta Health Services (AHS) to manage and protect it. Security Risks: Centralized storage of sensitive health information heightens the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks. Data Accessibility: Healthcare data is often siloed across various institutions and systems, limiting access and preventing collaborative research that could yield population health insights. Privacy Concerns: Patients have expressed concerns about how their data is used and shared without explicit consent, creating distrust in healthcare practices. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation This concept explores alternate ways to store healthcare data, aimed at improving both data security and accessibility for collaborative research while addressing patient privacy and control over their information. How it Works This concept is currently in an exploratory phase, investigating targeted techniques to decentralize health data storage and address the challenges of secure access. This approach could potentially include new methods for data sharing that prioritize patient privacy and consent. Get Involved To Learn More Contact Steve Drew to learn more Get in touch steve.drew@ucalgary.ca . View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Dr. Neesh Pannu is a Bridging Community and Acute Care Lead at Health Everywhere. Neesh is a distinguished nephrologist and Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Alberta, is a highly accomplished medical professional. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Alberta and furthered her training at Stanford University, culminating in a master's degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Harvard University. Dr. Neesh Pannu, a distinguished nephrologist and Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Alberta, is a highly accomplished medical professional. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Alberta and furthered her training at Stanford University, culminating in a master's degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Harvard University. Dr. Pannu's research focuses on acute kidney injury , delving into aspects of diagnosis, management, and outcomes in this critical field. Actively engaged in impactful organizations such as the Alberta Kidney Disease Network (AKDN) and the Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration (ICDC), she contributes significantly to advancements in nephrology. Beyond her research endeavors, Dr. Pannu holds key leadership positions as the co-Scientific Director of the Kidney Strategic Clinical Network and the assistant Dean of Clinical Research Platforms at the University of Alberta, showcasing her commitment to advancing healthcare and clinical research. Bridging Community and Acute Care Lead Dr. Neesh Pannu  npannu@ualberta.ca PREVIOUS THEME LEAD NEXT THEME LEAD Uptake VC Personalizing Recovery After Acute Kidney Events Like npannu@ualberta.ca Dr. Neesh Panu Bridging Community and Acute Care Lead Dr. Neesh Pannu, a distinguished nephrologist and Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Alberta, is a highly accomplished medical professional. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Alberta and furthered her training at Stanford University, culminating in a master's degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Harvard University. Dr. Pannu's research focuses on acute kidney injury, delving into aspects of diagnosis, management, and outcomes in this critical field. Actively engaged in impactful organizations such as the Alberta Kidney Disease Network (AKDN) and the Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration (ICDC), she contributes significantly to advancements in nephrology. Beyond her research endeavors, Dr. Pannu holds key leadership positions as the co-Scientific Director of the Kidney Strategic Clinical Network and the assistant Dean of Clinical Research Platforms at the University of Alberta, showcasing her commitment to advancing healthcare and clinical research.

THEME # The Title Goes Here Here is two lines for your subtitle if you have one on your file Lead Co-lead Name Surname Team Member INNOVATION STAGE Name of the stage Health Innovation Focus What is it What is it Population and Setting What is it Technology and Intervention What is it What is it BENEFITS For Users For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. Project Theme Information Current State OVERVIEW What Is The Innovation OVERVIEW NeoApp is an innovative digital health solution, grounded in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, created to guide parents through the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants. It is the first ERAS-focused platform designed for neonatal populations and their parents at home, providing personalized support and education tailored to each baby’s surgical background, development stage, and ongoing health needs. INTENDED USERS How It Works OVERVIEW Other Known Use Cases OVERVIEW Project Theme Information Current State Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... How it Works Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Get Involved Add a Title Add a Title Connect via email: Email: Discover More: here Previous Item Next Item

THEME # The Title Goes Here Here is two lines for your subtitle if you have one on your file Lead Co-lead Name Surname Team Member INNOVATION STAGE Name of the stage Health Innovation Focus What is it What is it Population and Setting What is it Technology and Intervention What is it What is it BENEFITS For Users For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. Project Theme Information Current State OVERVIEW What Is The Innovation OVERVIEW NeoApp is an innovative digital health solution, grounded in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, created to guide parents through the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants. It is the first ERAS-focused platform designed for neonatal populations and their parents at home, providing personalized support and education tailored to each baby’s surgical background, development stage, and ongoing health needs. INTENDED USERS How It Works OVERVIEW Other Known Use Cases OVERVIEW Project Theme Information Current State Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... How it Works Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Get Involved Add a Title Add a Title Connect via email: Email: Discover More: here Previous Item Next Item

THEME # The Title Goes Here Here is two lines for your subtitle if you have one on your file Lead Co-lead Name Surname Team Member INNOVATION STAGE Name of the stage Health Innovation Focus What is it What is it Population and Setting What is it Technology and Intervention What is it What is it BENEFITS For Users For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System For parents, NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. Project Theme Information Current State OVERVIEW What Is The Innovation OVERVIEW NeoApp is an innovative digital health solution, grounded in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, created to guide parents through the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants. It is the first ERAS-focused platform designed for neonatal populations and their parents at home, providing personalized support and education tailored to each baby’s surgical background, development stage, and ongoing health needs. INTENDED USERS How It Works OVERVIEW Other Known Use Cases OVERVIEW Project Theme Information Current State Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... How it Works Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... Get Involved Add a Title Add a Title Connect via email: Email: Discover More: here Previous Item Next Item

Tyler Williamson is the Connectivity and Data Access Lead at Health Everywhere. Tyler serves as the Director of the Centre for Health Informatics, previously holding the position of Associate Director. Simultaneously, he holds the role of Associate Professor of Biostatistics in the Department of Community Health Sciences and directs the Health Data Science and Biostatistics Diploma Program at the University of Calgary. Dr. Tyler Williamson is the Director of the Centre for Health Informatics and a Professor of Biostatistics in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary. He is a member of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, and the Libin Cardiovascular Institute. Dr. Williamson’s work focuses on strengthening Canada’s health-data ecosystem, with emphasis on interoperability, health-data governance, and the responsible use of administrative and electronic medical record data. He has contributed to national surveillance initiatives, including foundational work with the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network, and continues to collaborate with the World Health Organization through UCalgary’s WHO Collaborating Centre. His leadership and impact have been recognized with a NAPCRG New Investigator Award (2018), the Lynn McIntyre Award (2020), Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 (2020) and the UCalgary Alumni Career Achievement Award (2024). Connectivity and Data Access Lead Tyler Williamson  tyler.williamson@ucalgary.ca PREVIOUS THEME LEAD NEXT THEME LEAD tyler.williamson@ucalgary.ca Tyler Williamson Connectivity and Data Access Lead Dr. Tyler Williamson is the Director of the Centre for Health Informatics and a Professor of Biostatistics in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary. He is a member of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, and the Libin Cardiovascular Institute. Dr. Williamson’s work focuses on strengthening Canada’s health-data ecosystem, with emphasis on interoperability, health-data governance, and the responsible use of administrative and electronic medical record data. He has contributed to national surveillance initiatives, including foundational work with the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network, and continues to collaborate with the World Health Organization through UCalgary’s WHO Collaborating Centre. His leadership and impact have been recognized with a NAPCRG New Investigator Award (2018), the Lynn McIntyre Award (2020), Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 (2020) and the UCalgary Alumni Career Achievement Award (2024).

We envision a vibrant eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, accelerating innovation, growth, and transforming healthcare through collaboration and partnerships. Enhancing Recovery After Surgery THEME 2: REMOTE MONITORING AND VIRTUAL CARE Date Alex Baron | January 2024 As we age it can take longer for our bodies to heal from trauma. As many as 40% of patients that undergo surgery will have major complications that lead to long-term health problems, such as heart disease or stroke. This is especially true for adults over the age of 65 following a major surgery, with many experiencing difficulties in returning to their pre-operation levels of function. Led by Dr. Duminda Wijeysundera, MD, at the University of Toronto, the Functional Improvement Trajectories After Surgery (FIT After Surgery) study aims to gain a better understanding of how often and why some patients experience significant disability after surgery. As one of 14 study sites across Canada, W21C is currently working with the Calgary site lead, Dr. Melinda Davis, MD, director of Master Teaching Program, clinical associate professor, Cumming School of Medicine, on recruitment efforts at the Foothills Medical Centre, actively engaging with patients prior to their surgery. Patient recruitment for the Calgary site began in July 2021 and is ongoing. Researchers are excited about the possibilities this work could reveal, especially as Canada’s population continues to age and the likelihood of more seniors needing major surgery every year is increasing. Having a better understanding of when and why patients experience disability after surgery will enable patients to make better-informed decisions about having surgery and allow physicians to identify patients that may need additional support following surgery. Overall recruitment and follow up for the study is expected to finish in 2023, with preliminary results anticipated in early 2024. By capitalizing on W21C's capabilities in eHealth and mHealth technologies, fostering collaboration, and actively engaging communities, the Health Everywhere Hub is poised to play a pivotal role in improving seniors' recovery experiences post-major surgeries. Project Contact: Dr. Mary Brindle Image Sources: Adobe Stock

Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Enhancing the Management of Pressure Injuries Through Technology-Enhanced Communities of Practice Exploring technology and policy solutions to common problem areas in pressure injury prevention, diagnosis and management Lead: Chester Ho Co-Lead: Martin Ferguson-Pell Team Member: Javad Soleimani INNOVATION STAGE Exploration Health Innovation Focus Acute Illness & Injury Population and Setting Adults Technology and Intervention — BENEFITS For Users Rural Clinicians: Gain access to wound care specialists and tools that improve diagnosis and management of chronic wounds. Wound Care Specialists: Provide support more efficiently, feel less isolated, and contribute to systemic improvements in care. Interdisciplinary Clinicians: Play a role in identifying root causes and prevention strategies, enhancing collaborative care. Patients: Experience better clinical outcomes, faster recovery, and reduced risk of recurrence. For The System Improved Care Quality: Address key gaps in pressure injury management, enhancing quality indicators. Increased Efficiency: Reduce bed occupancy and resource demands for wound care. Better Collaboration: Foster interdisciplinary teamwork through integrated virtual technologies. Cost Savings: Lower costs associated with prolonged hospital stays and pressure injury complications. Project Theme Information Current State Hospital-acquired pressure injuries affect one in six patients in Alberta’s acute care sites, causing significant pain, complications, and even death. These injuries are critical indicators of healthcare quality, with high rates often reflecting systemic issues in care delivery. Accurate staging and assessment are essential for selecting effective treatment plans, but these processes are especially challenging in rural and remote areas due to limited access to wound care specialists. Given the wide scope of this clinical problem, the project focuses on identifying the highest-priority gaps that can be addressed using virtual care technologies. Pressure injuries, also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are common in healthcare settings, particularly among patients with limited mobility, such as those with spinal injuries. These injuries can cause severe pain and lead to life-threatening complications if untreated. Because pressure injuries are generally preventable, their prevalence is often viewed as an indicator of the quality of care. An audit of acute care sites in Alberta revealed that approximately one in every six patients had a pressure injury. However, assessing and staging these injuries is challenging, as it relies heavily on subjective human evaluation, typically by nurses without specialized wound care training. Many Registered Nurses (RNs) are uncomfortable with the responsibility, fearing inaccuracy in staging due to a lack of specialized expertise. Other Known Use Cases Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter are undergoing to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes. The specific focus will be on two products: 1) Xsensor’s ForeSite® Intelligent Surface, an artificial intelligence-powered continuous skin monitoring... What is the Innovation The project applies a design thinking approach to improve pressure injury (PI) management by using virtual care technologies. A key innovation is demonstrating technology that enables wound care specialists to provide effective virtual support to rural clinicians. The approach integrates tools for tracking wound staging and progression while incorporating input from interdisciplinary clinicians to identify the root causes of pressure injuries and measures to prevent recurrence. A virtual community of practice fosters collaboration among rural and urban clinicians, wound care specialists, and technology providers to co-develop and test solutions that address care gaps and enhance outcomes. By addressing high-priority gaps and leveraging virtual care technologies, the Pressure Wound Design Thinking project aims to create a scalable, collaborative model that improves pressure injury management in rural and remote areas, ultimately enhancing care quality and clinical outcomes. How it Works Design Thinking Methodology: Collaborate with stakeholders to identify high-priority challenges, co-develop practical solutions, and test implementations in both simulated and real-world environments. Integration of Interdisciplinary Contributions: Incorporate insights from interdisciplinary clinicians to address root causes of pressure injuries and identify prevention measures. Community of Practice: Create a virtual network for rural and urban clinicians to share expertise, focusing on PI staging, care improvement, and long-term prevention strategies. Barrier Identification: Address obstacles to implementing virtual wound care, including access to technology and training in rural communities. Get Involved Contact to Collaborate Contact to Martin Ferguson-Pell to collaborate Get in touch fe4@ualberta.ca . View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. View The Portfolio ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together. Previous Item Next Item

Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Neo App A digital health solution that educates, empowers, and connects parents of neonatal babies Lead Mary Brindle Co-lead Additional Contributors Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE Families transitioning their babies from the NICU to home face overwhelming challenges due to limited post-discharge support, often feeling ill-equipped to manage their baby’s needs without immediate access to healthcare professionals. There is currently a gap between the intensive care available to neonates after surgery in the hospital and the minimal support available to parent caregivers after discharge, which is very stressful for parents to navigate. While NICU discharge typically includes basic in-hospital education and printed resources, these materials can be difficult to retain, generalized rather than personalized, and are often inadequate in addressing the diverse needs and concerns of families in this high-stress period (McNeil, 2023). According to Dr. Deborah McNeil of AHS’ Maternal, Newborn, Child and Youth Strategic Clinical Network, caring for a preterm baby both in-hospital and at home “requires extensive support over time” (Alberta Health Services, 2023). In Alberta, NICUs are currently operating at 95-103% capacity, which makes it challenging for staff to allocate the necessary time to prepare each family fully for discharge (Lee, 2024). This gap in support often leads to increased parental anxiety, confusion, and even isolation, which in turn can contribute to a higher likelihood of emergency room visits after discharge. Studies indicate that comprehensive discharge support can reduce emergency visits by up to 26% (Alberta Health Services, 2023). Without effective guidance, parents may struggle with crucial health-related activities, such as feeding, tracking weight gain, or recognizing early warning signs, often resorting to non-credible sources like internet searches or informal advice that can compromise infant health (Frey et al., 2022). For rural families, who may be further isolated from specialized healthcare, this need for reliable, accessible information is even more pressing. Without support, parents may delay care due to uncertainty or seek emergency services for questions better suited to primary care (Hannan et al., 2020). In a healthcare system already stretched thin, these unnecessary visits increase costs, wait times, and healthcare provider burnout, with nearly half of all pediatric readmissions involving infants less than one year old, and costs per readmission reaching $5,087 to $11,341 USD (Hannan et al., 2020). THE CHALLENGE Families transitioning their babies from the NICU to home face overwhelming challenges due to limited post-discharge support, often feeling ill-equipped to manage their baby’s needs without immediate access to healthcare professionals. There is currently a gap between the intensive care available to neonates after surgery in the hospital and the minimal support available to parent caregivers after discharge, which is very stressful for parents to navigate. While NICU discharge typically includes basic in-hospital education and printed resources, these materials can be difficult to retain, generalized rather than personalized, and are often inadequate in addressing the diverse needs and concerns of families in this high-stress period (McNeil, 2023). According to Dr. Deborah McNeil of AHS’ Maternal, Newborn, Child and Youth Strategic Clinical Network, caring for a preterm baby both in-hospital and at home “requires extensive support over time” (Alberta Health Services, 2023). In Alberta, NICUs are currently operating at 95-103% capacity, which makes it challenging for staff to allocate the necessary time to prepare each family fully for discharge (Lee, 2024). This gap in support often leads to increased parental anxiety, confusion, and even isolation, which in turn can contribute to a higher likelihood of emergency room visits after discharge. Studies indicate that comprehensive discharge support can reduce emergency visits by up to 26% (Alberta Health Services, 2023). Without effective guidance, parents may struggle with crucial health-related activities, such as feeding, tracking weight gain, or recognizing early warning signs, often resorting to non-credible sources like internet searches or informal advice that can compromise infant health (Frey et al., 2022). For rural families, who may be further isolated from specialized healthcare, this need for reliable, accessible information is even more pressing. Without support, parents may delay care due to uncertainty or seek emergency services for questions better suited to primary care (Hannan et al., 2020). In a healthcare system already stretched thin, these unnecessary visits increase costs, wait times, and healthcare provider burnout, with nearly half of all pediatric readmissions involving infants less than one year old, and costs per readmission reaching $5,087 to $11,341 USD (Hannan et al., 2020). THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION NeoApp is an innovative digital health solution, grounded in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles, created to guide parents through the complex journey of post-surgical recovery for NICU infants. It is the first ERAS-focused platform designed for neonatal populations and their parents at home, providing personalized support and education tailored to each baby’s surgical background, development stage, and ongoing health needs. HOW IT WORKS NeoApp offers a comprehensive suite of features, including: Personalized Educational Content: Parents receive tailored guidance based on their baby's surgery, developmental milestones, and health data. Data Collection & Predictive Analysis: Parents input health and behavioral data, which the app analyzes to help predict care needs and identify potential issues. Peer Support & Community Resources: NeoApp connects parents to a supportive network and local resources, helping reduce feelings of isolation. Daily Check-ins and Milestones: The app provides checklists and milestones to support parents’ daily routines, helping them feel reassured and informed at each stage of recovery. Other Known Cases: For adult colorectal surgery (and a few other specialities), SeamlessMD uses an ERAS-based app https://www.seamless.md . Further, there is another app called NICU2Home that focuses more wihtin NICU and discharge process for neonates that are premature, but not surgical neonates https://nicu2home.fsm.northwestern.edu THE BENEFITS For Users For parents: NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System NeoApp has the potential to decrease avoidable emergency visits and readmissions by providing parents with timely, reliable support at home, which could lessen the load on already overburdened NICUs and emergency departments. Additionally, by reinforcing discharge education remotely, the app can streamline in-hospital discharge processes and save time for healthcare providers. NeoApp could also improve long-term patient satisfaction and outcomes, especially in areas with limited access to specialized care, supporting a more efficient and sustainable healthcare ecosystem. THE BENEFITS For Users For parents: NeoApp offers personalized guidance and support, increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. The app empowers parents with knowledge specific to their baby’s needs, helping them monitor recovery, track milestones, and recognize signs of concern without relying on generic information or internet searches. By connecting with a community of parents facing similar challenges, they feel less isolated. The clear recovery pathway and milestones NeoApp offers make the transition from hospital to home smoother, providing peace of mind. For The System NeoApp has the potential to decrease avoidable emergency visits and readmissions by providing parents with timely, reliable support at home, which could lessen the load on already overburdened NICUs and emergency departments. Additionally, by reinforcing discharge education remotely, the app can streamline in-hospital discharge processes and save time for healthcare providers. NeoApp could also improve long-term patient satisfaction and outcomes, especially in areas with limited access to specialized care, supporting a more efficient and sustainable healthcare ecosystem. Ready to Keep Exploring? If you’d like to learn more or connect about NeoApp , reach out to Mary Brindle, Project Lead , at: mailto:mbrindle@ariadnelabs.org Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.

Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link / Lead Co-lead Project Contributors Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION HOW IT WORKS THE BENEFITS For Users For The System Ready to Keep Exploring? Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.